poster on eye flu - #13442
I am dealing with this annoying eye flu situation and honestly, I'm kind of freaking out about it. I woke up a few days ago with my left eye all red and swollen, like, really not a great look, ya know? I thought maybe I just had an allergy, but then it started watering like crazy and felt super itchy. Googling stuff, I stumbled upon a poster on eye flu and, well, it didn't help because I wasn't sure if I really have eye flu or just something else. The poster on eye flu said something about contagiousness, but am I supposed to just stay home indefinitely? And what about the burning sensation? I went to my doc, and they gave me some drops, but they didn’t explain much, just said it should get better. If it's eye flu, how long should I expect to feel like this? Plus, I've got a work event coming up and I really don't want to be that person with a red, swollen eye. Can anyone break down what I need to know from this poster on eye flu? Like, are there more ways to treat it or prevent it from spreading? Also, if anyone has gone through this eye flu before, how long did it take to heal and did the drops actually help you? Thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
Eye flu, more formally known as viral conjunctivitis, is definitely a bother but it’s not uncommon. It seems like you’re describing classic symptoms: redness, swelling, excessive tearing, itchiness, and that annoying burning feeling. It’s good that you’ve already seen your doctor and have been prescribed eye drops. Typically, these are lubricating drops or sometimes antiviral drops if it’s from a virus like adenovirus, which often causes eye flu. Viral conjunctivitis is indeed contagious, and it’s usually transmitted through contact with the infected person’s tears, eye discharge, or even from contaminated surfaces. To prevent spreading it, you should avoid touching your eyes, wash your hands frequently, and not share personal items like towels or makeup.
In terms of duration, viral conjunctivitis can last from a week to about two weeks. The eye drops can help alleviate symptoms, but it really just takes time for the virus to run its course. It’s best if you can stay home until your symptoms clear up, or at least reduce direct contact with people, especially in a work setting, since it can spread quite easily. Treatment mostly involves symptomatic relief, so continue using the drops as directed by your doctor. Additionally, applying a cold compress a few times a day can provide some relief from swelling and discomfort.
If your symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen—like experiencing vision changes or severe pain—you should follow up with your healthcare provider because that could indicate another underlying issue. Keeping your hands clean and avoiding rubbing your eyes will also go a long way in managing symptoms. Rest and good hygiene play big roles here. Your social event is important, but prioritizing your health ensures you don’t inadvertently spread it to colleagues, so it’s a balance.
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